Celebrating Our 5-Year Wedding Anniversary & Exploring the Finger Lakes

As I sit down to write this, I'm flooded with memories from the past five years—five years of love, laughter, challenges, and growth. This summer marked a significant milestone in our journey together: our 5-year wedding anniversary. These past five years went by so fast I am truly blessed to say that it was spent loving my best friend.

We decided to celebrate this special occasion in a way that reflects who we are as a couple. Whether it was a romantic getaway to a place we’ve always wanted to visit, a quiet dinner at our favorite restaurant, or simply a day spent together doing the things we love, what matters most is that we’re together, celebrating our journey. When it came to finding the best place to enjoy our anniversary there was only one place that came to mind —The Finger Lakes in upstate NY.

The Finger Lakes region of New York is a gem of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Prior to the pandemic we took the kids here on a camping trip but didn’t get to fully experience all that the region had to offer so it was a “ no- brainer” when we thought about celebrating our anniversary locally. Since the area is so vast we decided to visit just three of the Finger Lakes most charming towns: Seneca Falls, Watkins Glen, and Geneva. Each town offers unique attractions and experiences, making the Finger Lakes an ideal destination for an unforgettable getaway.

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Here’s a glimpse into the highlights of our trip and what makes each town special.

Seneca Falls: A Historical and Cultural Hub
Seneca Falls is often considered the inspiration for the fictional town of Bedford Falls in the classic film “It’s a Wonderful Life.” This charming town is steeped in history, particularly related to the women’s rights movement.

Women’s Rights National Historical Park & National Women’s Hall of Fame:

My first stop was the Women’s Rights National Historical Park. The park commemorates the first Women’s Rights Convention held in 1848 and celebrates the efforts of pioneering women like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. Walking through the historic Wesleyan Chapel and the visitors’ center gave me a profound appreciation for the strides made in the fight for gender equality.

Just a short walk away, we also visited the National Women’s Hall of Fame, which honors the achievements of extraordinary women in various fields. The exhibits are inspiring and educational, showcasing the incredible contributions women have made to society.

Watkins Glen: Nature’s Wonderland

Watkins Glen is a haven for nature lovers, known for its breathtaking gorge and beautiful state park. Honestly i’m still in awe and cannot wait to go back.

Watkins Glen State Park:
The highlight of Watkins Glen is undoubtedly Watkins Glen State Park. The park features a stunning gorge with 19 waterfalls cascading along a two-mile trail. The Gorge Trail is a must-do, offering spectacular views of the rock formations and waterfalls. It’s a relatively easy hike, but be prepared for some stairs. The sights are well worth the effort.

Seneca Lake:  
After hiking, we spent some time relaxing by Seneca Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes. The lake’s clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. There are several picnic areas and parks along the shore, making it a great spot for a leisurely afternoon. Seneca is also know for their many wineries and we took full advantage.

Geneva: A Blend of History and Modernity

Geneva, situated at the northern end of Seneca Lake, combines both historical charm and modern amenities.

Seneca Lake Wine Trail:
Geneva is a great starting point for exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. The region is renowned for its wineries, and I spent a delightful day visiting a few of them. Tastings often include a variety of wines, from crisp Rieslings to robust reds. The scenic vineyards and the warm hospitality of the winemakers made the experience unforgettable.

Geneva-on-the-Lake:
For accommodation, we stayed at the 41 Lakefront resort. This elegant property offers stunning views of Seneca Lake, luxurious amenities, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to relax and unwind.

The journey from that magical day when we exchanged vows to today has been nothing short of incredible. These past five years have been a beautiful blend of highs and lows, four beautiful babies, a house and a dog!. We’ve celebrated victories—big and small—and weathered storms together. There have been moments of pure happiness that felt like our hearts could burst, and there have been tough times that tested our resolve and commitment. But through it all, we’ve remained steadfast in our love for one another.

As we celebrated this milestone, it was special time to not only look back but also to look forward. We’re excited about what the future holds for us. This anniversary wasn’t just about marking time—it’s was also about celebrating the love that has deepened and matured over the years.

As we look ahead to the next chapter of our lives, we’re filled with hope and excitement. We know that there will be more challenges to face and more joys to experience. But with the foundation we’ve built over these past five years, we’re ready for whatever comes our way.

To my partner, thank you for five incredible years. Thank you for being my best friend, my confidant, and my greatest love. Here’s to many more years of happiness, growth, and adventure together.

Happy 5th anniversary to us!